Of the top three causes of death in the United States, cancer ranks number two. Although it is one of the leading causes of death, only 30% of counties in the United States have an oncologist to treat their local patients. Because of this shortage, one in three cancer patients will not receive the appropriate level of care. To further complicate the matter, estimates show that 30-60% of patients seeking cancer treatment also have hematologic disorders. Yet, only 5% of students who complete their fellowship in hematology go on to practice in the field. The crushing gap in care is continually compounding, preventing Americans from receiving the life-saving care they need.
What is Hematology?
Hematology is the study of blood and its diseases or disorders. Hematologists are expert healthcare professionals dedicated to diseases affecting blood and its components, including blood cells and bone marrow. They use hematological tests to diagnose anemia, infections, hemophilia, blood clotting disorders and leukemia. They are also included in patient care teams when deciding the best course of action for infectious disease or cancer care. Yet, these integral specialists are hard to come by.
Where have the Hematologists gone?
Over the past 25 years, the specialist training protocols and requirements have changed dramatically. The American Society for Hematology found that in 1995, there were 74 accredited U.S. hematology training programs and 75 hematology-oncology programs. Still, by 2018, there were only two single-specialty hematology programs compared to 146 combined hematology-oncology programs. While the transition is not inherently bad, it shows the incredible dip in the interest and financial support of the two specialty programs, with hematology pulling the shorter stick. Most of those who graduate from dual programs later focus on oncology instead of the specialized study of hematology, widening the already prevalent specialist gap. The lack of hematologists has led to most specialists operating out of well-known, urban hospitals, making it difficult for those suffering to physically reach a proper doctor, only to find themselves on the waiting list.
How Telemedicine Can Help
Telemedicine providers are closing the gap. The service offers physicians an alternative route, giving them more autonomy over their lives and work schedules. It also provides these much-needed services to communities that would otherwise never receive such care. Telemedicine offers patients peace of mind. If their local hospital can’t recruit a full-time hematologist, patients can still access the high-quality care they deserve.
Even though the physician is not physically in the room with the patient, they can still provide expert care. With the help of in-person staff, these doctors can:
- Perform a full physical exam with the on-site nurse
- Identify specialty-related diseases
- Manage chronic diseases
- Direct necessary follow-up care
- Discuss diagnosis and treatment directly with the patient
The shortage of oncologists and hematologists in the United States, especially in rural areas, leaves many cancer patients without adequate care. With cancer being the second leading cause of death and the shift from single-specialty hematology programs to combined hematology-oncology training, we will continue to see limited access to essential care for many. Embracing telemedicine is crucial to addressing the specialist shortage and improving outcomes for patients with cancer and blood disorders. Through a hybrid care model, we can provide life-saving care to all patients, regardless of location.
With 16 years in the industry, Eagle Telemedicine’s Tele-Hematologists and Tele-Oncologists are ready to support your hospital. For more information, contact us today!
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